i83_0412_wiganwest

May 2012Wigan Edition

www.locallife247.co.uk

Legends

Winstanley Tennis Club

on the up!-pages 22-23

Then and Now!

Picture Featu

re

See Pages 40-41

of Longshaw!- page 7

Jack Tracks to Parbold!

-pages 58-61

2 Local Life www.locallife247.co.uk

�Local Lifewww.locallife247.co.uk

Woof!Life has a funny habit of bringing you down to Earth with a bump hasn’t it?

It was a glorious morning, so I’d risen from my bed early to get a few good photos of the local countryside. I was in Lees Lane near Dalton, when I stopped to capture a gorgeous sunrise shot of Parbold. It’s a tiny country lane and there’s no-one about, so I left the car running. No more than 30 seconds later I come back to my car only to find it locked!

It turns out that the dog had stepped onto some sort of button that locks all the car doors, a new hi-faluting security function. So there I am, at 6.30 on a Sunday morning playing peep-bo with the dog, trying to get it to move around the car hoping that it steps on that blasted button again! The bloody dog thinks I’m playing a new exciting game with her, and the couple of drivers who pass by obviously think that I’ve escaped from the nearest nut-house!

Worn out with exhaustion, I call ‘er indoors and wake her Sunday morning slumbers. She was NOT impressed, and on our return home, the kids at home greeted me with absolute derision. The entire family then proceeded to inform the world via Facebook that I hadn’t got the brains I was born with! There were lots of LMAO’s flying around in cyberspace, and even a few LMFAO’s from their cruder friends.

The dog got the sympathy vote and milked it for all it was worth; that nasty man locking her in the car. And now, four weeks later, I still have people barking at me in the street. Will I ever be allowed to forget this?!

Anyway, here’s your issue of Local Life for you; full of all your favourites and a few new bits and pieces too!

Keep smiling!

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Publisher: Local Life 247 LtdUnit 8, Hewitt Business ParkWinstanley RoadOrrellWiganWN5 7XB

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The June issue of Local Life will be published on Thursday 24th May. The copy deadline for this issue is Thursday 10th May. Local Life is published every month. Distribution areas will alternate each month between two separate edition areas; Edition 1 is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Standish, Whitley, Shevington, Appley Bridge, Parbold, Wrightington, Newburgh and Hilldale.

Edition 2 is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life, on or around the first weekend of the month, at Tesco Extra in Wigan or at Sainsbury’s in Marus Bridge. You can also pop into our offices and collect a copy or you can check out our online publication at www.locallife247.co.uk.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

No part of this publication, including pictures, may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

1st lesson free at Staves!£50 off Great Lengths Extensions!50% off conservatory Perfect Fit Blinds!Have your Say in Orrell & Billinge!FREE membership & Diet PackOn the Up – Winstanley Tennis ClubBispham Hall HistoryBest of British Holiday featureThen and Now Picture FeatureMoney and Investment with ProsperTop Tax Tips from CMALocal Elections SpecialDish of the Month – Lamb KeemaWhat’s OnJack’s Tracks to ParboldAngie’s Garden DiaryGarden ServicesThe new Ford B-MAX Motoring ServicesHome Services JobsGreen and Clean’s Useful Numbers

10121315192228324042454952545862646668707778

In this issue

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

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Longshaw Legends!It may be just a small village that people whiz by when travelling from Orrell to Billinge, but the village of Longshaw should be proud of a big-hearted family in their midst. Pictured on the front cover of this issue of Local Life is Cliff Stockley, and his young grandsons William (10) and Samuel (6), who have spent many hours improving the look of the local area.

Between them, the Stockley family have planted thousands of daffodils and also some silver birch trees on Upholland Road, on a stretch of land kindly loaned to them by Dr Charles Mather. The trio have also planted thousands of bluebells near the Beacon and have scattered thousands of wildflower seeds in Billinge Woods.

It was Cliff’s father William who, when he clocked off work at Parr Pit, spent hours with Cliff exploring nature in the local woods around Longshaw and Billinge. And in turn William and Samuel, who go to school at St Aidans in Billinge, have benefitted from their Granddad’s interest in nature, learning all about flowers, trees, butterflies and other woodland creatures.

Cliff has been planting the daffodils in and near the village for the past seven years, and when he first started his drive to improve the look of the area he was paying for all of the bulbs himself. Orrell Ward Councillor Richard Clayton found out about his efforts and has supplied Cliff with bulbs for the past few years as part of his Brighter Borough spending.

Canny Cliff has also been a good customer of Billinge Garden Centre, negotiating hard for end of season stock at much reduced prices. When proprietor Andrew Smith discovered that Cliff’s efforts benefitted the local area, he generously donated stock for Cliff and his grandsons to use.

I’m sure you’ll join Local Life and the villagers of Longshaw in saluting the efforts of Cliff, William and Samuel , and also those who have supported them along the way. Well done to all concerned!

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Health Centre UpdateAfter much recent optimism that the long-running Orrell Health Centre saga had been resolved and contractors were gearing up to start work on the Church Street project, news reaches Local Life that the project has been delayed further. The reason for the delay is being placed with the general economic climate and, specifically, the reluctance of banks to

release the necessary finance.

After local Councillor Richard Clayton contacted the District Valuer Caroline Pelham-Lane to ask about progress, Ms Pelham-Lane admitted that “he (the developer) is having difficulty with the financing and is having to look for a new and more co-operative bank”.

In the meantime, local MP Yvonne Fovague (pictured) has called for a further meeting between interested parties (Bridgewater NHS Trust, Orrell & Billinge Network and Doctor O’Brien) to discuss the exact situation with the developer, and to see what can be done to progress matters.

Baby FairSaturday 26th May sees a Baby Fair at St Luke’s Church in Lodge Road in Orrell. Organised by BOSS (Birth Options Support Services), the fair will run from 10am to 2pm at the church.

There will be stalls, taster sessions and demonstrations on the day and everyone is welcome to attend. BOSS is a group that informs and supports women and families with birth options and choices. If you would like a stall at the event please email Jennifer Clegg at [email protected].

� Local Life www.locallife247.co.uk

Picnic in the ParkNews has just filtered through to Local Life that Billingers will be celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a Picnic in the Park event on Monday 4th June at Bankes Park in Billinge. The start time is 3pm and there will be stalls and entertainment throughout the day culminating in (this bit isn’t yet confirmed) a lighting up of the Beacon in the evening. The event is scheduled to finish at 10pm.

The event is being organised by St Helens Council, the Billinge Parish Council, the Rangers and the Billinge Bygone Fete committee. For further information on Picnic in the Park, please contact

Councillor Sue Murphy on 01942 517118, Councillor Alison Bacon on 0787 293 8085 or Councillor Joe Pearson on 01942 727833.

Social DanceDust off your dance shoes and spruce up your glad rags; there’s a Social Dance being held at Pemberton’s Masonic Hall on Friday 15th June. Tickets for the event, which start at 7.30pm, are £5, which also includes a hot pot supper and a dessert. Call Carol on 0774 994 7461 or Jacqui on 0792 766 5546 for your tickets.

Car BootThere’s a Car Boot Sale this Sunday (29th April) at Orrell Holgate School in Moor Road, Orrell. The gates are open to stallholders from 8am, then open to the general public from 8.30am. Costs of the space is just £6 if you book and pay before the day and £8 if you pay on the day. Refreshments will be available.

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Cotton, Canal & CakeFor a fascinating afternoon out, check out the Cotton, Canal and Cream Cake afternoon being run by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust at Trencherfield Mill. You can see the mighty steam engine at Trencherfield Mill and then enjoy a relaxing trip on the Leeds to Liverpool Canal on Kittywake (pictured), followed by a short talk and a delicious cream tea! The trip is being run on Wednesday 9th May between 2pm-4pm, the cost is just £6 and you can book by calling 01942 828128. Don’t worry if this trip is booked up, because there is another opportunity on Wednesday 6th June.

Murder in Crompton StreetWigan Little Theatre’s next production, which runs from 2nd-12th May at the theatre in Crompton Street is the Peter Gordon play Murdered to Death. This hilarious spoof of the Agatha Christie genre is set in a country manor house in the 1930’s. The play is the first of a trilogy starring the inept and bungling Inspector Pratt, who battles against the odds and his

own incompetence to solve the murder of the house’s owner. It soon becomes clear that the murderer isn’t finished yet, but will the miscreant be unmasked before everyone else has met their doom, or will the audience die laughing first?

To book your tickets, call the Box Office or visit in person the week before or during a show, or call them on 01942 242561. For more information about Wigan Little Theatre, visit the website www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk.

Spring FayreThere’s a Spring Fayre taking place on Saturday 21st May at the Park Lane Unitarian Chapel on Wigan Road in Bryn. There will be stalls, refreshments, plants for sale and various raffles too. Car parking is available at the Chapel, which is located next to The Park near the Landgate Estate, and the Fayre runs from 10am-1pm.

Silver LiningThe controversial closure of local libraries caused grief to many local residents, but the silver lining has appeared for users of the Hope Community Library in the form of extra stock for their shelves. £3,000 has been spent on extra shelving and a refurbishment for the library, based at the Grange Community Complex, to cope with the influx of stock. The refurbished library is now open, so if you haven’t visited in a while, do pop down and browse the library’s increased range.


Plant SaleThe annual Plant Sale in aid of the Grange Community Complex takes place on Friday 11th May at the upper car park of the Complex on Highfield Grange Avenue. Plants will be available for sale on the day, but to ensure you get the plants you want you can order them in advance via the complex. Simply pop in for an order form and submit it to the complex along with a cheque before Sunday 6th May.

The Plant Sale runs from 9.30am-5pm on Friday 11th and profits from the sale go directly towards the running of the Grange. Over 2,000 people a week use this facility, so please dig deep and support your local community this year rather than go to the nearest mammoth DIY store.

Tai Chi ThursdayThursday is now Tai-Chi day in Up Holland, where instructor David Keegan is running classes in Yang-style Tai Chi. The classes run at the Up Holland Community Centre in Hall Green between 7pm-8.30pm. Classes are £5 per lesson and club membership and insurance will set you back a further £5 a year. For further details, please call David on 07425 133347.

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Nurses ReunionA group of nurses who trained and worked at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan between 1966 and 1976 are holding a reunion on Friday 6th July at the Bowling Green Hotel on Wigan Lane at 7.30pm. So if you’re interested in meeting up for an informal evening with old friends and colleagues, or if you know of anyone else who worked at the Infirmary during this period please let them know about the reunion. If you’d like any further details about the reunion either email [email protected] or phone 07888 941850 or 07724 916482.

The organisers of the event are; Kath (Armstrong)

White, Judith (Wilding) Blan, Teresa (Winstanley) Arkwright, Jenny (Cheetham) Ramsdale, Elsie (Carter) Nicholson and Eileen (Catterall) Cook.

First ResponseIf you live or work in the West Lancs area and you’d like to give something back to your local community, then perhaps you can make a huge commitment and become a Community First Responder? Community First Responders are local volunteers who react quickly to local emergencies, often arriving at emergency situations in more rural areas prior to the arrival of an ambulance, and can make the difference between life and death. Full training and support is given to the First Response team by the North West Ambulance Service. For more information on becoming a responder, call Alan Rudge on 01257 462167 or visit the website www.nwas-responders.info.

1�Local Lifewww.locallife247.co.uk


Lovely Jubbly!Pemberton Community Association are holding a Family Fun Day on Sunday 3rd June as part of the Queen’s Jubilee Celebrations. The Fun Day, which is being held at the Pemberton Masonic Hall on Chapel Street in Pemberton, will run from 12pm to 4pm. In the hall there will be a variety of stalls, including information stalls, cakes, sweets, tombola and various other things.

In the car park outside the Hall will be a special visitor; Del Boy’s Reliant Robin, which will be the centrepiece of a ‘Guess the Number of Balloons’ competition. Also in the car park will be a penalty shoot-out, a bouncy castle, police and fire vehicles, a climbing wall and lots more too! If you would like to book a stall at the event or you’d like to volunteer to help, please contact 07925 867070 or email [email protected].

Ready, Steady, GO !You can get ready for the Olympics by celebrating Wigan’s sporting achievements past and present at the Museum of Wigan Life. Created by the Museum’s Youth Heritage Action Team, this interactive exhibition takes a fresh look at all things sporty, from sporting heroes to community sport. The display opens at the Museum of Wigan Life in Library Street, Wigan from Friday 18th May and admission is free! For more information please ring 01942 828128.


Have Your Say!The Orrell and Billinge area is one of the fastest growing areas in Wigan, but local community and sports facilities are in short supply. The area paid £6.4m in council tax to the local council in 2011/2012, but many concerned residents are questioning exactly what they get back in return. The need for a strong independent voice in the area has never been greater, and that’s why the Orrell and Billinge Network is holding an Open Day on Saturday 12th May at Salem Hall in Church Street from 10am-2.30pm.

The main purpose of the day is to find out what, if anything, the residents of Orrell and Billinge would like to change about the area where they live. What are their hopes and aspirations for the Orrell and Billinge of the future? What facilities would they like to see introduced to the area, and if there was funding available, how would they like to see it spent?

The Network, which is a non-political group of local residents who work on a voluntary basis to support the local community, also want to find out what exactly local residents want them to focus their efforts on.

Would you like to see a regular Farmer’s Market or Car Boot Sale in Orrell? Would you support activities to raise funds for facilities in Orrell and Billinge? Don’t worry though; it’s not all hard questions! Free refreshments will be laid on, and there will also be some free giveaways including sunflower seeds for the children, who will also be welcome at the event.

Already confirmed as attending the Open Day is local MP Yvonne Fovargue, who lives in nearby Winstanley, and Syd Cottle from Bridgewater Community Healthcare Trust will also be there to give residents details on the progress of the long awaited Orrell

Health Centre. The Open Day will also showcase some of the work that The Network does in the Orrell and Billinge area, and if you’d like to get involved with the Network, there will be members on hand who you can talk to.

The Open Day is being sponsored by the following local companies and organisations; Royal Bank of Scotland, Borron Shaw, Winstanley College, Orrell Windows and your own Local Life magazine. The venue of the Open Day is the Hall at the back of Salem Church on Church Street (opposite the Co-Op) and the event takes place on Saturday 12th May between 10am-2.30pm, so do come along and Have Your Say!

1� Local Life www.locallife247.co.uk

Plant a TreeThe environmental group Red Rose Forest is on the lookout for new members. The group, which is a non-profit making charity supported by Community Forests North West, plants trees wherever they are needed in urban areas. They turn ugly land into green space and even create green roofs on buildings. In addition to their own tree-planting, they also work with schools, volunteers, community groups and businesses to help their green projects. If you would like to become a Friend of the Forest, visit their website at www.redroseforest.co.uk. You’ll get to hear about latest green news and events, you can search through the opportunities to volunteer and you can get free stuff too!

George FormbyGerry Mawdesley, the President of the George Formby Society, will be the host of a special George Formby evening on Thursday 31st May from 6.30pm-7.45pm at the Museum of Wigan Life in Library Street, Wigan. The music hall and movie megastar was the

biggest box office attraction during the 30’s and 40’s and his cheeky Lancashire humour made him a huge draw. The cost of the evening is £2.50 per person; to book a place please ring 01942 828128.

Walk OnIf you enjoy walking then the Parbold Ramblers would like to hear from you! This friendly and sociable group are looking for new members to join them. Walks are on the 1st Sunday of every month leaving the shops on The Common at Parbold to go to that month’s destination. Membership is £15 per year, but a Day Membership is also available for first time joiners at just £1.25. Further details and a list of future walks can be obtained by calling Jimmy on 01257 463057 or Liz on 01257 462121.

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number [email protected].

Serious Ladies’ Nights, Serious Fun

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Kardy-O-Fun Hits WiganFresh from appearing on ITV1’s Dancing on Ice, the UK’s leading diet and fitness expert Rosemary Conley launches Kardy Laguda – an internationally-renowned exercise presenter - as her latest weapon to getting the nation fit. And, from this Monday (30th April) – the brand-new Kardy-O-Fun classes will be launched in Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs in the Wigan areas run by franchisee Chris Whistlecroft and her employee Annette Lord.

Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs is the only national slimming chain to include a workout as well as dietary advice in the same class and the organisation to always be one step ahead. First Rosemary’s clubs championed Salsacise, then Zumba and now Rosemary puts a new twist on aerobics by launching fat-burning, dance-based classes, Kardy-O-Fun, into her slimming clubs. Kardy-O-Fun is a new collaboration between Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs and fitness performer Kardy. Their mission is to help transform the way people think about exercise to encourage everyone to stay fit in a fun way with a unique style of aerobics and dance.

Rosemary says “We all know we need to incorporate more exercise into our daily lives. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week but we will only stick to exercise if it is easy and fun. This is where Kardy comes in. Kardy-O-Fun is an infectious, powerfully motivating, dance-based workout with simple movements choreographed in a fun and professional way which can be followed by anyone of any age and ability. I challenge anyone looking to lose weight not to enjoy our Kardy-O-Fun classes.”

This is what some of our instructors and members say:

“I don’t know what’s happening to me but I like it!! I have just taught a full hour of Kardy-O-Fun with no toning just full on routines!! Members just love it!” - Caroline Harris, West Yorkshire

“It is so simple you don’t need to think too hard so can put more physical effort in. The next day I could feel that I had used muscles that are usually left in peace!” – Amanda Checkley, Sutton Coldfield, who has lost 7lb in the first two weeks

Check out the advert opposite for details of Kardy-O-Fun classes at Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs in and around Wigan.

Step out this Spring!Why not join the Wigan Rambling and Climbing Club on their coach ramble from Wigan to Ambleside in the Lake District this Sunday (29th April)? Climbing to the tops, or just strolling along the valleys, this beautiful part of Lakeland looks great this time of year and you have a choice of three different walks to suit your taste.

The coach leaves Wigan town centre at 8.00am, picking up at Standish en route and we arrive back at approximately 7.30 pm. Reservation for this trip is essential and the cost? Just £10!

The club also has a car ramble on every other Sunday this month; for further details go to : www.wiganwalkers.com or contact the secretary, Jill Shilladay 01257 421926 or via email [email protected].

Drive SafelyThe IAM group (Wigan branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists) meets every Sunday at 9.45am in Shevington to run their Advanced Driving/ Riding Course ‘Skill for Life’. The course costs £139 which includes membership fees, books and final Advanced Driving Test fee. Once completed savings can be made on insurance, fuel economy, and AA membership. Courses last approximately 8 drives/rides depending on driving ability and driving habits. Free Assessment drives/rides available by request. For further details about the IAM and how you can benefit, please telephone 07071 226693 or visit the website www.iam.org.uk.

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number [email protected].


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ASHTON IN MAKERFIELDByrchall High School,Warrington Rd, WN4 9RQMonday 6:00 - 7:30 pmIncludes KARDY-O-FUN from 30/04/12!

GARSWOODRectory CE Primary School, Rectory Road, WN4 0QFThursday 5:45 - 7:15 pm(Slim & Aerobics)Thursday 7:15 - 8:30 pm(Zumba® Fitness)

HIGHFIELDHighfield St Matthew’s Primary School, Billinge Rd, WN3 6BLTuesday 5:45 - 7:15 pm Includes KARDY-O-FUN from 01/05/12!Tuesday 7:15 - 8:30 pm(Zumba® Fitness)

WINSTANLEYSt Aiden’s Social Club, Highfield Grange Ave, WN3 6TBMonday 09:30 - 11:00 am Includes KARDY-O-FUN from 30/04/12!

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Images OnlineWigan Archives Service, based at Leigh Town Hall, hosts Wigan Borough’s photographic archive of around 80,000 images which covers all aspects of life in the Borough. It includes everything from glass plate slides of Victorian walking days, prints of post-war rugby matches, to digital images of life in the 21st century. 5000 of these images have now been digitised and are online for everyone to enjoy; you can even buy a copy of the photographs you like in various sizes. The old images on the centre pages of this magazine were taken from this collection.

New images are constantly being accepted by the Archives. If you would like to donate or loan

a photograph for copying, please contact the Archives Service on 01942 404431. It could be a photograph taken last week, or 100 years ago, as long as it records a part of the area’s history. The entire collection is also available to view at the Wigan Archives Service in Leigh Town Hall. For the range of images currently online, please visit http://wiganimages.wlct.org/

Ladies EveningIf you fancy a night out with the girls, then Orrell Holgate School is the place to be on Friday 11th May, when the school holds a Ladies Evening between 7pm - 9pm. Come along for a bit of retail therapy and a drink or two with your friends. A wide selection of stalls include beauty, hair, bags, jewellery, Phoenix Cards, Ann Summers, Cakes for Occasions, Pampered Chef, flowers, soft furnishings and many more. There’s a bar and refreshments available and entrance is just £1.To book a stall on the evening, please contact Nichola on 07950 688169.


Three Cheers!Let’s face it; it’s not that often that we have to celebrate the opening of a brand new facility in the local area so let’s give three cheers to Winstanley Tennis Club, who are shortly about to open up their brand new clubhouse at their Hall Lane HQ! It’s just another positive step in the life of this growing club, which began life back in the 1920’s as an offshoot of Winstanley Park Cricket Club.

To be precise, it was on the 18th of April in 1921 when a proposal was brought forward to the committee of Winstanley Park Cricket Club by Mr J Humphrey and Mr J Hitchen. The duo proposed using land adjacent to the Cricket ground on the Winstanley Park estate to form a Tennis Club.

The forward-thinking committee put together a delegation and organised a meeting with Squire Bankes, the owner of the Winstanley Park estate, to get his views on the matter. After getting his nod, the committee went into overdrive to raise the necessary finance to build the courts.

Shares in the newly-formed Winstanley Tennis Club were sold to founder members, and a carnival was

held on August Bank Holiday that year to raise cash. Ashton in Makerfield Band performed at the carnival, Cassinelli’s paid £5 and 5 shillings for the privilege of selling ice cream there and other attractions included Punch and Judy, and a coconut shy. The carnival was a great success and by May 1922, just over twelve months after the Tennis Club was mentioned, the new tennis club was up and running!

The original grass court was soon joined by three shale courts. As the club was situated at the secluded heart of the Winstanley Park Estate, the children of members found exploring the woods and climbing the trees sufficiently diverting to allow their parents uninterrupted tennis throughout the long hot summers they enjoyed in those days!

By the late 1970’s, the club decided to purchase their own land at Hall Lane, just off Winstanley Road, where they could expand the club and increase the junior membership. The land was purchased from a local farmer with help from Gerry Rickards, and donations and loans from members allowed the erection of 3 hard courts and later, a very basic wooden clubhouse.

The early days on the new site involved the members running jumble sales, making afternoon teas, doing sponsored walks, and all sorts of other fund raising activities to help raise the money to run the club. The clubhouse was expanded in 1993 and 2 extra courts were laid in 1994. Land for the sixth court was purchased in 2000 after a bequest from Jimmy

Youngsters enjoying the Saturday morning sessions


Winstanley and the new court has been named in his honour.

The club now has approximately 100 senior members, of who around half play competitively in the club’s numerous representative teams in the Warrington League for men, ladies and mixed categories. The club also has representative teams for the U-14 and U-15 age groups and coaching for the younger age group takes place on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. The club’s professional coaches host great sessions, which includes some fun activities too!

Like any other private sports club, raising funds is the only way to guarantee future existence, and the club has had plenty of experience in this field. The club has set aside a scary £125,000 to build the new clubhouse, which includes a £50,000 interest free loan from the Lawn Tennis Association and a £10,000 interest free loan from Lancashire Tennis, and work finally started on this last November.

The big opening of the clubhouse takes place at the club’s annual open day on Sunday 1st July, when everyone will be invited to come along and have a look at the new facility, enjoy some refreshments and get a few tips on how to improve your backhand.

Shortly afterwards, the new clubhouse will be available for hire for meetings and for functions such as parties, weddings and funerals. The facility is expected to attract other racquet sports, and other community activities such as martial arts, aerobics etc. The capacity is expected to be between 60-100 people and the facility will be licensed.

If you are interested in joining the club or you’d like to enquire about using the new facility, then pop along to the Open Day on July 1st or call Geoff Bradshaw on 01695 624157. For enquires about youth coaching, please call Nicky on0791 955 6121.

Chairman Geoff Bradshaw with Councillor Richard Clayton outside

the new clubhouse

Orrell’s Tom Hagan,the young LTA protégé


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Call us now on 01695 632 825 or visit the website:www.billingeorrelltransition.org.uk

Be an active part of the community working to safeguard your future and that of Billinge and Orrell. Through positive action we will create a healthy, self-reliant and thriving community

We are a growing group of friendly volunteers bringing together collective skills and creativity to develop a resilient community for ourlower energy future.

Where do you fit in?Whatever you have to say or offer will make a difference - visit the website now!

What we’re doing:Working to create a Community Farm at Greenslate

Raising awareness of the impact of future energy shortages

Providing information, talks and film screenings

Creating valuable Community Links

Charity NightA local charity, Me 2 You, is the host of a charity night which will take place on Friday 18th May at Orrell St James Social Centre on St James Road in Orrell. This evening of live entertainment will feature Just Matt, a solo singer and DJ (www.just-matt.co.uk) and On The Line, an acoustic guitar based group (www.onthelineofficial.co.uk). Both Matt and On The Line have given their time to support the charity. There will also be a raffle and other opportunities to win some great prizes.

Me 2 You is a local charity which provides support for bereaved children, young people and their families and helps them re-adjust to life after death or loss of a loved one. Whether the person had been ill for some time or has died unexpectedly, the charity works closely with children and families in a variety of practical and creative ways, to create an atmosphere where they can share their thoughts and feelings and meet others.

The night will start at 7:30pm and tickets for the event will be £5. For tickets or to find out more about the charity please email [email protected] or contact them through their Facebook page Me 2 You Bereavement and Loss Charity, through Twitter @Me2YouCharity or call 01942 522234.


Caddy’s the Daddy Most residents will be familiar with the black, brown, blue and green bins that can be seen around the Wigan area on collection

days; well, there’s a smart new addition to the family on the way: the kitchen caddy.

With landfill costs escalating and room to bury waste running out, Wigan Council is ready to introduce food waste collections from May and they will be borough-wide by August. Every household is set to receive a 5 litre silver kitchen caddy and a supply of compostable liners to make recycling food waste clean and easy. It’s all part of Wigan Council’s drive to help residents waste less and recycle more.

Households with green bins will be given dishwasher-friendly caddies and compostable caddy liners to put their food waste in before transferring it to the green bin. Those households without green bins will be given the same kitchen caddy and liners as green bin households, plus a larger green outdoor caddy to put their food waste out for collection. These households

will have their collections using the same crew and vehicles as those with green bins, with collections every other week.

Wigan Council’s Head of Safer, Cleaner, Greener Services, Sally Wolstencroft, explains: “Food waste currently counts for about a fifth of the average black bin contents. Now, we’re going to be doing everything we can to make it as easy as possible to compost it. It’s much cheaper to recycle and compost waste than to send it to landfill. At a time when we have to make £66million of cuts over the next four years, this will help save £14 million for essential frontline services.

The combined food and garden waste will be sent to regional waste disposal facilities, where it will be composted indoors to create quality compost. The compost will be suitable for use on agricultural land.

Ms Wolstencroft adds: “We understand that some residents may be concerned about the prospect of a fortnightly food waste collection. Householders have the option of putting their food waste into their black bin on the week that their green bin isn’t being emptied. This would mean their food waste could still be collected every week.

To help householders understand the new service, a special five minute instructional video is available online at www.wigan.gov.uk/recycling.


Bispham HallThere are ruins of magnificent stately homes all over the country; these ancient buildings are from another time long forgotten, but they have many stories entwined in their history and our Bispham Hall has its own tale to tell.

Bispham Hall is a magnificent grade II listed building set back off Crank Road in Billinge; the hall has a rich history of memories wrapped up in royalism, ghosts, brownies and scouts. The history of the original Hall is shrouded in mystery; there is no mention of Bispham Hall until 1346 when it was named after the family of Bispham who acquired the estate when Roger de Bispham and Margaret De Heyton married.

The Bispham family lived in the hall spanning the reign of twelve monarchs, until the original building fell into disuse. The present Bispham Hall was built around 1560 after Thomas Bispham married Elizabeth Smalshaye of Up Holland. The Hall remained in the Bispham family until Thomas, the last male Bispham, died in 1730. The hall was then passed to the Leigh family of Hindley Hall and Joanna Holt came to live at the Hall where she resided until her death in 1794. The estate was passed down through the family ranks until in 1871 it was sold to Meyrick Bankes of Winstanley Hall.

Apart from a few tenants under Meyrick Bankes the Hall stood alone for many years without an occupant, until the 1st Orrell Scout Group rented part of the estate for camping. On November 17th 1948, the estate was bought by the Boy Scouts Association of South West Lancashire. The Scouts put a lot of work into restoring the building, from replacing the pine shingle roof, refurbishing floors and stripping walls of plaster. Time and money seemed to have been against Bispham Hall and it became financially

impractical to maintain the Hall. Fortune hasn’t always favoured the estate and Bispham Hall was gutted by fire in 1978 and in 1984 came under a compulsory purchase order by the Borough Council, intended to preserve what remains.

On the estate there are several monuments the most famous being the Waterloo Monument .The memorial is situated in front of the hall and was erected by John and Robert Holt in 1816 after the battle of Waterloo. Public relief, admiration and enthusiasm were so prevalent that monuments were set up all over the country to the Duke of Wellington. The monument is one

of the oldest in the borough and is a Grade II Listed monument with inscriptions on all four sides.

Our favourite piece of Bispham history lies with its ghostly tenants. As with all old buildings Bispham Hall has its fair share of ghost stories, some of which probably stem from inventive Brownie and Scout leaders looking to calm down their charges after an exciting day in the woods.

The most notorious ghost is that of Nellie Bispham, who doesn’t normally enter any of the buildings but allegedly haunts the woods around Bispham Hall. Nellie has spooked her way into Bispham Hall folklore, sighted by many people and has even been accused of attacking people. Although the more cynical amongst you might put these stories down to the camp fire tales, there’s no denying Nellie Bispham is something of a local celebrity - why she even has her own Appreciation Society on Facebook!

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Jack’s PackWe were delighted at Local Life HQ recently to receive a letter and picture from John Hayes, who organises a walk once a month for his work colleagues and members of David Lloyd Sports and Fitness Club in Knowsley. John was passed a copy of our March issue, which featured our Jack’s Tracks walk round Garswood and North Ashton.

John says “We started and finished the walk at the Rectory Nurseries and what lovely odd little place that is, everyone in our walking group of twenty were amazed with it, and Kevin and his son Carl made us all so welcome with tea and biscuits when we finished our walk, so thank you for the lovely walk and we hope to do some more up that way from your great little magazine”.

Thanks for your kind words John, hope to see you in the area again soon! Turn to pages 58-61 for our latest Jack’s Track where we visit the rolling hills of Parbold for a five mile circular walk.

Bird Brain? If you’ve got birds of the feathered variety on the brain, then you’ll be interested in what the local branch of the RSPB are up to this month. On Wednesday 9th May, there’s visit to local bird sites leaving at 9.15 am – call Tom Morton for details on 01942 832383, whilst on Saturday 19th May there’s a visit to Kentmere Valley in the Lake District leaving at 8am – call Neil Martin for details on 01695 624860.

All the outings and meetings are free to members (charges may apply at certain venues). New members are always welcome. No experience is necessary and help in identifying the birds is always available. Adult subscription is £8.00 and a family subscription is £12.00. Further details of all events can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan.

Summer FayreFor those who want to bag a bargain or two, there’s a Summer Fayre being held at Bispham Methodist Church on Saturday 12th May from 11am to 2pm. The church, which is located on the corner of Upholland Road and Crank Road, will be hosting cafe lunches, a car wash, and many stalls selling goods such as plants, cakes, books & toys.

�1Local Lifewww.locallife247.co.uk


Best of British!According to a recent survey, twice as many Brits are planning to holiday at home this year rather than go abroad! The survey, BDRC Continental’s Holiday Trends 2012, suggests that the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics were cited as the two main reasons that more Britons plan to holiday at home. Popular destination points were Cornwall, Devon, London, Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands.

If you’re planning on a ‘staycation’ this year, then make sure you pick up an Alfa Travel brochure from Marken Travel in Billinge.

Here are Alfa’s top tips for a great staycation this summer;

Alfa Travel specialise in quality coach holidays for the over 50’s to a huge selection of seaside and scenic resorts throughout the UK and the near Continent. The majority of Alfa’s tours use one of their own twenty Leisureplex hotels; these are situated in the prime holiday resorts of Great Britain and provide a consistently high standard which means you will not be disappointed.

The holidays offer terrific value; starting at just £144 per person for a 5 day break!

T R A V E L

Torquay and the English Rivera (� days from £2�4 per person)22 miles of beautiful coastline make up the English Rivera, and right at the heart of this unspoilt gem is Torquay. When you stroll along the sea front, enjoying the mild climate, sparkling blue waters and palm trees; you’ll be fooled into thinking you’re out for a walk in St Tropez.

Torquay has got something for everyone. Families will enjoy attractions such as Paignton Zoo, Torbay Steam Railway, Babbacombe Model Village and the new Living Coasts wildlife attraction, whilst older visitors will relish the chance to explore the bustling harbour and take in the varied nightlife.

Bournemouth (� days from £�0� per person)This jewel of a resort on the south coast is as vibrant and cosmopolitan as any other resort in the UK. There are many outstanding attractions including two piers, museums, an art gallery, beautiful parks and gardens, and a wealth of evening entertainment and, of course, those glorious beaches! Don’t miss the nearby New Forest, an area of unspoilt countryside with its famous wild ponies.

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Criccieth & Snowdonia (7 days from £�04 per person)The awesome countryside scenery around Criccieth is simply breath-taking, with fabulous views of Cardigan Bay and mountain scenery too. Nearby must-see attractions include Portmeirion Village, the Italian-style village set on its own peninsula on the southern shores of Snowdonia. Portmeirion is one of Wales’ top ten tourist attractions and was the setting to the famous TV series The Prisoner. Don’t miss a trip on the Snowden Mountain Railway, which rises to within 66 feet of the summit and provide unforgettable views.

Fort William & Skye (7 days from £2�� per person)The magnificent Western Highlands are on many a ‘bucket-list’, and Fort William is a perfect base to discover this area, which boasts some of the UK’s most spectacular and romantic scenery. An excursion to the enchanting Isle of Skye is not to be missed; make sure you take along your camera to capture the wonderful views. Café culture isn’t something you normally associate with Scotland, but when you visit Oban, you’ll love the lively harbour and many shops and restaurants.

Scarborough (7 days from £24� per person)Arguably the oldest seaside resort in the UK, Scarborough is a smashing place for a family holiday, but is also a great base for those who want to explore the many attractions of North Yorkshire. If the medieval castle physically overlooks the town, the busy harbour is Scarborough’s engine room. The usual seaside pursuits dominate the South Bay area and the steep hillsides are home to many attractive parks and gardens. Definite day trips include visits to York and the North Yorkshire Moors, and also to Whitby and Pickering with its magnificent 12th century castle.

These are just a small selection of the coach holidays available from Alfa. The company’s range of modern luxury coaches picks up locally and even if you don’t fancy travelling by coach, a self-drive option is also available.

For further details of more holidays please pick up a brochure from Marken Travel in Main Street, Billinge, if you are unable to come down to the office we will be happy to drop you a brochure off.

£10 per person off your next Alfa holiday! Offer only available untilSaturday 5th May.Offer only available atMarken Travel, Billinge


Brass NotesLocal brass band, Old Hall Brass, will be once again performing their annual concert at Southport Little Theatre. Tickets are now available and are selling fast! The concert will take place on Sunday 17th June at the theatre, which is located in Hoghton Street in Southport. Tickets are priced at £7 (£6 over 60’s, £3 under 16’s), and tickets can be obtained from Debbie Sudworth on 01942 715684.

Old Hall are currently looking for a front row cornet player to complete their line-up. Formed originally from the remnants of the old Orrell Silver Band, Old

Hall have been established for over 25 years and are now based in Roby Mill. The band have a busy but enjoyable concert schedule in 2012. If you’re interested, please call Paul Sudworth on 07889 271291, or email [email protected]. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Further details about Old Hall Brass can be found at www.oldhallbrass.co.uk

Barn DanceThe Toll Bar Band will be returning to the Parbold Festival Barn Dance, which will take place this year on Friday 13th July in the marquee on Parbold Douglas playing field. Tickets are £13.50 and include an all you can eat barbeque! Numbers are limited, so please call Steve Morgan on 01257 463772 to secure your tickets.

�� Local Life www.locallife247.co.uk

I recently caught up with David Barton, the Managing Director of Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. The Standish-based Independent Financial Adviser has continued to grow its client numbers both organically and through acquisitions during the last few years despite tough economic conditions.

Prosper have just completed the purchase of North West based Principal Wealth Management, the first of three new business acquisitions the company plans to make this year. David is extremely excited about the prospects for the business as the financial services industry goes through radical change.

The acquisition of Principal Wealth Management was an excellent fit for Proper’s existing business. Chris Davies (pictured below with David Barton), the Senior Partner at Principal Wealth Management felt that his client base would welcome the level of transparent investment planning offered by Prosper and was confident that his clients would be in safe hands with Prosper.

Prosper now manage investments in excess of £75 million and the business is on target to surpass the £100 million mark by the end of the year.

David tells Local Life “I have met with a number of other business owners who now wish to exit the industry because of the changes which are due to be implemented in January 2013. From that date, all Independent Financial Advisers will need higher levels of qualifications and cannot take commissions on investment and pension business”.

David adds “During the last eight weeks alone we have taken on in excess of fifteen new investment clients whose current advisers are in the process of leaving the industry, and as a result of this increased demand we have recently recruited Richard Noone (pictured above with David Barton) from Preston based MR financial services. Richard is a very experienced adviser who will further strengthen our advisory team”.

The business principally provides advice to clients that have liquid savings in excess of £100,000 that they wish to invest. As well as providing ongoing reviews / updates and quarterly newsletters to their clients, David feels that it is the personal touch that makes Prosper different. “Our investment proposition means that all clients are allocated with a dedicated consultant who will continue to look after their affairs. We have a ‘client for life’ philosophy which remains critical to our business success”.

David wraps up our meeting by reminding Local Life readers of the importance of being happy with their own financial adviser. He adds “If you feel that are either not getting the level of service you want from your current adviser or you are concerned that your adviser is about to retire or leave the industry, then please do give me a call on 01257 423 800. We have strengthened our team and we can promise to give new investment clients a very high level of service”.

Prosper acquires Principal Wealth Management


Party Weekend!For many, the long Jubilee Weekend of 2-4th June will be a chance to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. Previous patriotic occasions have seen residents holding street parties and this occasion looks set to continue the tradition. Wigan Council Officers have confirmed that there won’t be additional bureaucratic charges to the public if they choose to get their community together to celebrate the Jubilee on their street.

Head of Highways, Mark Tilley, says: “Normally closing a road incurs quite a cost for a temporary traffic regulation order. So we’re saying to people that as long as we know about your party plans by 11 May, we can do a formal application for everyone at once. This means there will be no charge to residents and just one single cost for us to manage.”

Party organisers will need to provide cones or barriers to close their street and will be responsible for all public liability associated with the event. A preliminary search on this reveals that £1m of cover will cost around £50. If you’re interested in finding out tips and advice on how to hold a successful street party, then visit www.streetparty.org.uk or www.thebiglunch.com.

Wigan residents interested in holding a street party should contact the council’s Traffic Group, Places Directorate, Wigan Life Centre, WN1 1NJ or email [email protected] for an application form. Forms must be returned before 11 May.

West Lancs residents can download an event application form from www.westlancsdc.gov.uk and send the completed form to: West Lancashire Borough Council, Technical Services Section, 52 Derby Street, Ormskirk, Lancashire L39 2DF by next Friday (4th May).

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At Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic, our team of Chiropractors and therapists can help to relieve

most types of muscle, joint and nerve pain.

What sorts of problem can you help me with? We can relieve pain that is caused by a variety of muscle, joint and nerve problems. This includes both new and old pain resulting from your job, sports, poor posture, accidents and some types of arthritis or wear & tear. We specialise in treating neck and back pain as well as pulled muscles, stiff joints and trapped nerves.

How can you help me? We always start off with a 45 minute consultation and exami-nation to find the underlying causes of your problem. We then use gentle, safe hands-on treatments to relieve your pain.

Why do you have a digital x-ray department? We have our own digital x-ray department at the clinic so that we can take and show you your pictures within 24 hours.This helps us to show you the underlying causes of your problem, allowing us to start treatment quickly and get you out of pain.

How soon can you help me?We are open six days a week and offer appointments the same or the next day. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-7pm, Saturdays 8am-4pm.

Why do we offer gentle treatments? Because we treat young children and senior citizens, we know that people prefer gentle, painless treatments.

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Parliament StThe view from St Thomas the Martyr Church, looking up Parliament Street in 1908. The alleged ‘ghost house’ of Up Holland is on the direct right.

The GrapesThe pub that gave its name to the area around traffic lights in Orrell is no more – apparently the land is today owned by an Indian brewery.


Local Life would like to thank Wigan Archives Services for the old pictures featured. For the range of images cur-

rently online, please visithttp://wiganimages.wlct.org/.

Abbey LakesThe Abbey Lakes pub and its tram stop in 1914. The pub is now an Indian Restaurant.

Orrell PostA postcard depicting a viewof Orrell Post in 1911.

4�Visit us online at www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

Money & InvestmentMaximise Your Retirement IncomeYou usually only get one chance to decide who will provide your pension and since this can determine the income you receive for the rest of your life, it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly.

There are many pension providers offering retirement annuities and so it makes sense to shop around for the best deal. By shopping around it allows you to choose the annuity provider that can offer you the highest income from your investment, in the most appropriate manner for your circumstances. This is where exercising your Open Market Option comes in. From our experience it is very rare that the pension provider with whom you have accrued your benefits offers the best annuity rate for you, unless there are guarantees attached to the contract.

Indeed if you have suffered some health conditions, or you smoke, there is more than likely the opportunity to purchase an Enhanced Annuity. These cases are underwritten on an individual basis and just a relatively minor condition can have a considerable effect on the level of income you can achieve.

Prosper recently advised a client with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, who obtained an income 42% greater than what he was offered by his existing pension provider. But it isn’t only if you have a medical condition that using your right to the Open Market Option can benefit you. Indeed, for a client with no history of any health complaints Prosper

were able to obtain an income 9% higher than he would have received from his existing providers. Don’t forget that this substantially increased income is for life.

There are also other considerations that you need to take into consideration when purchasing an annuity, such as including a spouse’s benefit, whether to opt for escalation in order to try and counter inflation or to plump for a guaranteed period.

Purchasing an annuity is just one way of obtaining your retirement income and may not necessarily be the way for you. The most likely way to maximise your retirement income in the best way to suit your circumstances is by obtaining independent financial advice.

If you’re coming up to retirement and you need to secure the right annuity for you, we can take you through your options and get you the best deal for your future. Call us now on 01257 423 800 to for a free, no obligation, consultation.

Brought to you by David Barton of Prosper Independent Financial Advisers. David is a specialist in retirement and investment planning for the over 50’s

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CMA Accountancy Guide to the 2012 BudgetHello and welcome to this month’s article from CMA, a proactive accountancy and business advisory firm based in Appley Bridge. This month we are reviewing the recent budget and how this will impact you.

The changes introduced in the budget effect everyone in different ways depending on your circumstances. If you are lucky enough to earn over £150k then the changes certainly helped you as your tax rate has been cut to 45%! However, if you are a pensioner then future tax changes will cut your personal allowances from 2013.

The following are the some key points that may affect you depending on whether you run a small business or are employed.

Personal Allowances increase to £8,105 for everyone from 6th April 2012. It is important to check that you have the correct tax code on your wage slip. From April 2013 this will rise to £9,105.

Changes to Child Tax Credits – Payments depend on your circumstances and the rules have changed. If you are unsure about how these changes may affect your please contact us for advice.

Company Car Drivers – The tax paid on the benefit of having a company car will increase. There are incentives for choosing a car with low CO2 emissions and these should be looked at when selecting your next car. There are also changes to company car and van fuel benefit taxes which you may need to review.

Child benefit to be partly removed – There will be a change where at least one person earns over £50,000 – This has softened from previous plans. Child benefit will be partly removed where at least one person earns over £50,000.

Business Capital Allowances - The energy saving enhanced capital allowance will be updated to include heat pump driven air curtains. Certain other technologies will be excluded. There are a number of incentives available to companies purchasing “green” assets

VAT – The main rate of VAT remains at 20%. If you are a business, the threshold for registering for VAT has increased to £77,000. If you run a business and need any advice on VAT please contact us. We can take away this hassle and let you focus on running your business.

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Tax Tips of the Month – How Much Tax Could You SaveHMRC is issuing new codes for the 2012/13 tax year. Check that yours is correct or you could end up paying too much tax! Remember, your personal allowance will increase in April.

If you run a business and are vat registered all returns must be submitted online from 1st April. If you any help with this please contact us.

Finally, if you have a self-assessment return that is outstanding then we can help with this. The penalties that HMRC charge have increased so it is better to see to this as soon as possible.

Do you need to prepare a Self-Assessment return? If you have savings income, income from letting out property, foreign income or claim or professional subscriptions you may need to complete a return.

If you would like to find out more about any of the issues discussed in this article CMA offers a free initial consultation, either at our office or yours, at a time to suit you. If you would like to see how we can help please get in touch. Contact DetailsChris Alcock ACMA, CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DRTel: 01257 255521 Email [email protected] web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk


Expo Date AnnouncedThe Wigan Expo exhibition will take place on Friday 12 October 2012 from 8am to 3pm at DW Stadium. Fast becoming one of the regular highlights of the local business year, the event promises to be bigger than ever. 100 local firms are expected to attend, one of the biggest events of its kind to be held in the North West.

Local businesses will once again be able to arrange private meetings with buyers from major public and private organisations. These, as well as details of guest speakers, will be announced nearer the time. A new element to this year’s event will be “Meet-

the-Experts”. This will be an opportunity for local businesses to have a one-to-one meeting with an expert in a variety of fields including finance, procurement, legal, health and safety, creative etc.

The date for booking the stands will be announced in May. Stands will start at £250 for a 2m x 1m stand including furniture, power and wireless access, as well as company logo included in the programme and on signage for the event. To keep up to date about Wigan Business Expo Twenty12, join the mailing list by emailing: [email protected].

New Blueprint Needs Clarification The Government has published its long awaited revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Paul Kenny, a campaigner and local resident has raised the question of what impact the NPPF will have on the public inquiry into the Borough’s Planning Blueprint – The Local Development Framework – and specifically the destruction of green belt land located at Junction 25 of the M6.

Paul Kenny, who is standing for Council for the Winstanley Ward at the local elections next week said: “The NPPF is a major shakeup of the planning system. It is essential that local communities are aware of the implications of this framework as it will shape future development in the Borough for many years to come and will bring areas of the Borough under attack from developers keen to exploit the presumption in favour of development.

“We also need to prevent the NPPF leading to chaos in our planning system and the Government must give further detail on transitional arrangements than that which is currently in the document and Makerfield MP, Yvonne Fovargue is seeking clarification on this from the minister given the recent public inquiry and widespread opposition by local residents to the changes planned for Junction 25 of the M6.”


Up Holland Ward

It’s that time of year again; strange people knock at your door and try and engage you in conversation, newly born babies face being manhandled and kissed by random passers-by, people you have never seen in your life before pop up in the local press described as ‘local campaigners’, and various bits of literature are pushed through your letterbox littered with inaccuracies, half-truths and, in some cases, downright lies.

Yes, it’s the local elections!

We’ve devoted the next few pages to profile the candidates for the three main wards falling within our distribution area this time – Orrell, Winstanley and Up Holland. We asked them a few pertinent questions first though before we allowed them to let loose to convince you why you should vote for them in the elections. The questions were;

Do you live within the ward you represent and, if not, what makes you think that you are a suitable candidate to represent them?

If you were elected as a Councillor and you were faced with a controversial issue where you knew the views of your ward differed widely to the views of the party you represent; would you vote to represent the people who elected you or would you follow your party loyalties?

If you were elected, would you make a commitment to spend your entire Brighter Borough budget in the ward which elected you? (Question only relates to Wigan candidates?)

Here’s what they said;

Election Special

Gaynar Owen Gaynar lives in Up Holland with her husband. Gaynar has worked all her life from leaving school and has no intention of retiring.

Gaynar said. “I love living in Up Holland. It has never lost the warm glow provided by good friends and neighbours.

It’s my job along with my fellow Labour Councillors to ensure were all working together, I would be promoting open and honest dialogue to ensure all views are heard. It’s only when councillor fails to do this that we see this problem arise, as with the Tories and the Local Plan.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because before I even thought about being a candidate, I canvassed the Alma estate where I live regarding new Double Glazed Windows and Doors, receiving an amazing response. I then passed on individual letters, signed by tenants to our Local Labour Councillor, who in return presented them to the Council. We got our new Windows and Doors.

I am proud to be selected as the Labour Candidate for Up Holland as it gives me a chance to give back to the community that has given me so much over the years.

Ruth Pollock I’ve lived in the Up Holland area for fifty years; I’ve been a Parish Councillor for 15 years and a Borough Councillor for the past four years.

I would always try my best to vote to represent the views of the residents of Up Holland.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because; I have been your local councillor for the past four years, I live locally and travel around the area on a daily basis, this is why so much has been done. Local roads repaired in Tontine, Up Holland and Crawford. Council property upgraded two years ahead of schedule and 20 mile an hour signs on many roads.

We are also to have our own defibrillator in Up Holland for the use of every resident. The Heart Foundation tells us that if a person collapses and has attention in the first ten/fifteen minutes they have a far better chance of survival. I want Up Holland to be the safest best kept area in West Lancashire. Please vote for me and help me continue with this work.

Up Holland Ward


Winstanley WardOrrell Ward

Orrell Ward

Kelly Ready I am just finalising details to move into a property on Orrell Road, as I think it is important that a local Councillor fully understands the issues that affect people in the area.

I would always vote with the interest of my local area, and if this meant voting against the wider views of my party then I would always do so. I think it is important that if elected I would stand up for the views and opinions of the people that I represent; I would regularly meet with local residents, to ensure that I always stand up for the issues that matter to them.

Yes. I would always spend the Brighter Borough fund within the local community and I would start by funding the Community Library space and Orrell in Bloom.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because I am passionate about creating change in the local area and I believe local issues should come before Politics. I would be a strong voice within the town hall, I’m hardworking, trustworthy and I would always have the best interest of Local residents when making decisions.

Stan BarnesI have lived in the ward for more than 25 years & been a Councillor for 8. I know the ward and its issues and am active in the community.

As current Councillor for Winstanley, I have always voted according to the best interest of the local community. The Community Action Party has no whip.

If re-elected I will continue to spend my entire BB budget for the benefit of the people of Winstanley.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because I offer an alternative to the Labour Party, which nationally created the financial mess and locally is making huge cuts.

Richard Clayton Yes, I was born and bred in the Orrell Ward, and I am the only Orrell Councillor who actually lives in the Ward.

I was elected eight years ago to represent the residents of Orrell Ward, that is what I have always done and, if I am elected again, that is what I will continue to do. Party politics means very little to me, I will always put the needs and wishes of the Orrell and Billinge areas first.

The vast majority (96% in 10/11) of my Brighter Borough allowance has always been spent within the Orrell Ward and I will continue to support community initiatives and groups within the Orrell Ward.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because;

The Orrell Ward needs a strong, experienced and active Councillor, who works hard to help local residents and to promote the Orrell Ward. I share your concerns about the lack of facilities and the over-development in the area, and I will continue to work and support the efforts by local community groups to bring the pride back to the Orrell and Billinge areas.

Orrell Ward

Donald McQueenYes - It depends on the issue, sometimes what’s right on a national basis may not be right for a local issue. Therefore, I would seek to understand why there was such differing views, and try gauge the validity of that view in a local context first - then vote on the widest interests of the Orrell electorate.

Yes - You should vote for me on May 3rd because The Green Party stands for an issue of primary importance - nature itself. Our existence completely depends on the healthy functioning of the planets’ ecosystems. The Green Party seek to halt the assault on this essential life-giving, resource-providing gift to us all, and restore it back on a sustainable path. Our policies on health, industry, welfare, employment, the economy, transport, human rights, energy, education and well-being, underpin this vital objective. The philosophical basis of Green policies are based on practical and current issues, not on outdated and tired political ideologies of the three main parties.

We stand against nuclear weapons and the investment in new weapons of mass destruction (Trident). We stand against cuts, privatisation and the public’s suffering while the rich get richer.

Our policies will bring back meaningful, labour-intensive jobs!


Winstanley Ward

Winstanley WardWinstanley Ward

Steven Heyes I have lived in Foundry Lane, Highfield, for 12 Years and so am aware of the concerns of residents.

The Green Party are sympathetic with the views of the people of Wigan, as we naturally fill the ‘Left Wing’ gap vacated by Labour. If conflict did arise, I would first consult with the people of the Ward, then with the Green Party, and only then make what I believe to be the most fair and ethical decision. However, a councillor needs to keep in mind that they represent the people who elected them.

I would commit to funding any project that gives the residents of the ward of Winstanley, a better quality of life, especially as plans seem to be for the removal of green spaces. I would listen to the residents of the ward, and back projects which are both needed, and wanted in the area.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because I believe in fairness for all and offer the people of Wigan an impartial voice on the council. I would challenge wrong and immoral decisions and would champion what is right and good. The people of Wigan need to know that someone is fighting for them and not just fighting an opposition party.

Paul KennyYes, I live at Derbyshire Rd, Winstanley. I am 43 years old, married and have one adult daughter.

The first and most important part of being an elected Councillor is to represent the interests of the people and communities that make up your ward. So Yes, I would vote to represent the people who elected me.

Brighter Borough Funding should be used wholly and exclusively for the benefit of people who live in your ward. The only exception to this rule would be in the case of organisations whose base may be outside the ward but can demonstrate that it will directly benefit a significant number of my constituents.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because I have worked in both the public/private sector and have held senior positions in local government as an elected councillor. Winstanley needs a strong voice to speak up for its interests and to protect its natural resources. That’s why the fight to retain green belt land at Junction 25 is important.

I will always be Winstanley’s voice in the Town Hall and not the Town Hall’s voice in Winstanley.

Michael NichollsYes, I live in the ward and have enjoyed doing so for many years

In principal I would support the residents. However I would hope that by talking to both residents and party colleagues I would be able to find common ground to prevent widely differing views.

I would hope to spend the entire budget, but not just for the sake of spending it. After consulting local residents we would then agree together where the money should be spent.

You should vote for me on May 3rd because this is your chance to decide who represent Winstanley residents and who runs our local Council. It is not about whether you think the national politicians are doing a good job. The opportunity to do that is at a general election

For me, this election is not about what I am against, but about what I am for and what I want to achieve including stopping Council Tax increases.

My fight is not against the other parties. For me, it is about achieving the best for you and your family. Please give me the chance to do so by voting Conservative.

Readers in certain parts of Up Holland (College Road, Hallbridge Gardens, Dingle Road, Roby Mill and part of Mill Lane) fall into the Wrightington Ward. Lack of space restricts us from carrying information about this Ward, but the candidates standing are;Carolyn Evans from Carlton Avenue, Up Holland who is standing for the Conservatives. Julie Hotchkiss from Finch Lane in Appley Bridge who is standing for the Green Party. Jennifer Patterson from Dobson Close in Wrightington who is standing for the Labour Party.


Lamb KeemaA light and healthy supper with a taste of India

Prep time: 15 min Cooking time: 30 min Serves 4-6

Ingredients

MethodDry fry handfuls of minced lamb for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Drain off any fat.Add the ground spices and fry for another minute.Add the chopped onion, red pepper and green beans. Stir-fry for a few moments then add the mushrooms, chickpeas, tomatoes, stock and garlic pickle, if using.Bring to the boil, then cover and cook gently for about 25 minutes, stirring from time to time. Remove the lid for the final ten minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid. The keema should not be allowed to boil dry though.Prepare the salad by mixing together the cucumber, tomatoes, onion and fresh coriander. Season with salt and pepper then chill until ready to serve.Check the seasoning of the keema and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir through the fresh, chopped coriander.

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Dish of theMonth

For the Keema350g / 12oz lean minced lamb1 tsp ground cumin1 tsp ground coriander1 large onion, chopped1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped115g / 4oz fine green beans, chopped into 2cm pieces175g / 6oz mushrooms, sliced400g / 14oz can of chickpeas, drained400g / 14oz can chopped tomatoes90ml lamb stock (a stock cube works fine)

2 level tbsp garlic pickle (optional)Salt and freshly ground black pepper2-3tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

For the salad¼ cucumber, chopped finely3 tomatoes, deseeded and chopped finely½ red onion, finely chopped2-3 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped


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Thursday 2�th April Harrogate Flower ShowRunning until Sunday 29th April, the Harrogate Spring Flower Show hosts the UK’s largest floral art marquee with hundreds of beautiful, intricate works of art created by flower clubs, colleges and individuals. This year’s show will be better than ever for ideas and inspiration this spring, visit the beautiful show gardens and plant nurseries from across the country will be creating spectacular displays. There will be fruit and vegetable growing demonstrations, crafts and gifts, a food marquee and a cookery theatre. Cost: Thur/Fri/Sat £16.00, Sun £14.00, under 16’s FreeTime: 9.30am to 5.30pmContact: 01423 546157 or visitwww.flowershow.org.ukSat Nav Ref: HG2 8PW

Tuesday 1st May Dancing on Ice Live Tour 2012Torvill and Dean’s UK tour comes to the Liverpool Echo Arena for the 6th year. After wowing more than a million people across the country in previous years with stunning ice performances, skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean will lead an all-star celebrity line-up to arenas across the country. The line-up will be announced soon, together with the panel of rink-side judges who will critique their performances. Also runs on Wednesday 2nd May. Cost: Ice Side: £57.50 All Other Tickets: £42.50 and £32.50Time: Tues 7.30pm, Wed 2.30pm and 7.30pmContact: 0844 800 0400Sat Nav Ref: L3 4BX

Saturday �th May The Lego ShowFollowing the success of the event in 2011, The LEGO Show is returning to Manchester with its biggest show ever. The LEGO Show will be at EventCity at the Trafford Centre and the 3 day show will be the largest LEGO event in the UK. A great day out for all the family, the show is packed full of interactive features including workshops with LEGO designers, LEGO marketplace with new and second hand LEGO products for sale, and a display of new 2012 LEGO sets, many of which are not yet on sale. Runs until 7th May.Cost: Adult £9.50, child £7, family £29Contact: 0161 870 9800 or visit www.thelegoshow.comSat Nav Ref: M41 7TB

Saturday 12th MayOpen Studio WeekendGlass manufacturer Morpheus Glass host an open studio weekend at their base on the Hewitt Business Park, off Winstanley Road in Orrell with stock on sale at up to 70% off normal retail prices. Refreshments available. This event also runs on Sunday 13th May.Time: 10am-4pmCost: FreeContact: 01695 624182 or www.morpheusglass.co.ukSat Nav Ref: WN5 7XB

Friday 1�th MayLightNight Liverpool Rediscover the city with your friends and family, as Liverpool is illuminated with unexpected happenings and exciting activities late into the night. LightNight stages over 60 free events to inspire and delight visitors of all ages. A few of the highlights are; the Rolf Harris exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery, the Candle-lit Labyrinth at the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Tate Liverpool’s 1940’s Razzle Dazzle, Liverpool Town Hall with live theatre and a Big Dance & late-night Celidh at St George’s Hall.Time: 4pm-Late Contact: www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk

The What’s On Guide


Saturday 2nd JuneRoman Weekend in ChesterThe Romans will re-claim the city for the whole weekend as one of the highlights of the MBNA Chestival 2012. Hundreds of Romans will be descending on Chester for a full weekend of activity, including Gladiatorial Roman Games, a working Roman village with a live archaeological dig, original Roman Kids Army, Military Displays and a Roman march through the city centre. Also runs on Sunday 3rd June.Cost: FreeTime: 11am to 5pmContact: 0845 241 7868 or visit www.chesterfestivals.co.ukSat Nav Ref: CH1 1RF

Thursday 7th JuneBBC Antiques RoadshowBBC One’s ever-popular Sunday night programme Antiques Roadshow will be filming for its 35th series at Port Sunlight in Wirral. Cost: FreeTime: 9.30 to 4.30pmContact: www.bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshowSat Nav Ref: CH62 5DX

Sunday 10th JuneBusy Bees Open DayDid you know Walton Hall Gardens have their own bee hives? North Cheshire bee keepers look after the hives that are situated in the Children’s zoo and today they’re having an open day. Come along and learn all about this exciting hobby, you can even purchase Walton Gardens honey to try for yourself. Cost: Free entryTime:1pm-4pmContact: 01925 601617 (op 2) or visit www.warrington.gov.uk/waltongardensSat Nav Ref: WA4 6SN

Saturday 1�th JuneTodmorden Agricultural ShowThere’s something for all the family at the Todmorden Show. There are classes for cattle, dogs, ferrets, goats, handicraft, horses, pets, poultry, rabbits, and sheep. The handicraft section has over 100 classes varying from children’s handwriting to woodwork and wine making. The events ring will provide interesting and informative displays throughout the day and there will be 70 trade stands selling a wide variety of food and goods. Cost: Adult £7 Children £3Contact: 01706 815648 or visit www.todshow.orgSat Nav Ref: OL14 6LH

Tuesday 1�th June Cheshire County ShowThis is the largest and longest established two-day event of its kind in the North West. It is enjoyed by over 80,000 visitors each year. The Show is host to a wide variety of well represented sections including: cattle, light and heavy horses, vintage machinery, WI, rural life, dogs, rare breeds, cheese and wine. The Show also includes a game fair area, a play zone, a large food hall of regional producers and a food live theatre. With also over 700 trade stands, the Cheshire Show is a firm favourite for all the family. Also runs on Wednesday 20th June.Cost: Adult £16, Senior £13, Child £7 & Family (2 adults & 2 children) £32Contact: 01565 650200 or visit www.cheshirecountyshow.org.ukSat Nav Ref: WA16 0HJY

Events and Festivals

Family

Walks & Nature

Special Interest

What’s on Guide events key


History ExhibitionTo coincide with the Civil War Day on the 26th May, Wigan Parish Church is holding a Wigan History Exhibition. Working with other groups with an interest in preserving the town’s heritage, they will be presenting an insight into the lives of the people, their work and play, their architecture and environment - a 1,000 years of history and worship which has touched all of the townsfolk through the schools, workhouse and their living conditions as well as their births, marriages and burials.

Every part of the church will be filled with exhibitions bringing alive the town’s heritage. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, with free admission, this will be a day not to be missed by anyone who is interested in discovering how Wigan became the town it is today and the role the church played in this.

All Saint’s Parish Church sits at the junctions of Hallgate, Wallgate, Bishopgate and Standishgate, and dates back to the 13th century. It’s one of the oldest parish churches in Lancashire although it’s done some diocese hopping over the years. It started off in the diocese of York. Then for five centuries it belonged to Litchfield, before being transferred to Chester in 1541 and finally to the diocese of Liverpool in 1880.

Who would have thought that Wigan hosted a medieval style X Factor competition back in 1873, when the whole town were involved in voting for

their new organist, the first and last time such a vote took place. Their winner was a brilliant 13 year old called James Entwhistle. Unfortunately he died when he was only 26 and had the dubious honour of being buried beneath the church’s organ. Remarkably his sister, the only female organist Wigan has had, took over his role and played for 29 years, living to a ripe old age in those days of 53 years.

In 1994 Andrew Lloyd Webber founded

The Open Churches Trust to try and encourage the unlocking of places of worship so that people can still find a ‘haven of peace, solace and prayer’ in our busy towns. I’m happy to tell everyone that doesn’t know about the work of Frank Layland and Kathy Joynt. What they have done in opening up Wigan Parish Church on Saturdays has led the Heritage Projects to award them first prize and a very nice glass plaque that says so too.

For further information about the history exhibition on May 26th, please contact the Project Manager, Mervyn Reeves on 01942 242950 or email [email protected].

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Priors Wood Farm

Wood Lane

Parbold

High Moor

Stoney Lane

Tan House Lane

Broad Hey

Lane

High Moor Lane

ParboldStation

Car Park

WindmillStocks Tavern

AppleyBridge

Parbold Hall

WigginTree

ParboldBottle

A5209

Rigbye Arms

This month the Jack’s Tracks team return to Parbold in West Lancashire. The history of the village, the surrounding terrain and the many points of interest, such as the Parbold Bottle, make Parbold a popular choice with local walkers. As you would expect though, this walk is a little hilly in parts! We set off one soggy Sunday morning for a stroll through the rolling Douglas Valley. Tucked between the villages

of Appley Bridge, Parbold and Dalton, this part of the Douglas Valley boasts wonderful views, slow single track lanes, working farms and beautiful houses. It’s a great place to be for walkers, wildlife lovers and photographers. This is a fairly easy five mile walk, just enough to blow away the cobwebs, without tiring you out too much, and for those of little stamina, there’s some of the best country pubs for miles around en route!.

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Parbold to Priors Wood FarmPark up in the car park on Station Road alongside the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Exit the car park and turn right. Walk the 200 yards to the t-junction by the Stocks Tavern, turn left into Alder Lane and then take the immediate right into Bradshaw Lane.

When you get to the bottom of Bradshaw Lane, carry on down the pathway running alongside the eques-trian centre. After 150 yards you’ll happen across a stile just before the driveway leading to a house called Douglas Dale. Hop across the stile and follow that path for 200 yards alongside a field.

At the bottom right hand corner of the field you will cross another stile, and you’ll now walk on a path running parallel to a small brook. Follow that path for a short distance and then cross the brook at the wooden bridge.

After a further 30 yards or so, you’ll happen across a metal gate. Once you have gone through the gateway, you’ll have a choice of paths; you’ll need to turn right at this point. You’ll cross a wooden stile almost im-mediately and take the clearly defined path straight through the field.

Your next stop is a wooden bridge over the River Douglas. Immediately after you’ve crossed the bridge, take a left turn and follow the route of the river. Keep going around the left hand perimeter of the field. In the top left hand corner of the field there is a seven bar gate, hop across the stile at the side of this gate and bear left, walking up an incline towards Prior’s Wood Farm.

Priors Wood Farm to Parbold HillGo through the rather ramshackle farm gate at the top of that road, you will now be approaching a working farm. Just before you come to the first farm building on your right, take a right turn downhill along a con-crete path. Once you get to the bottom of the slope, just by the cattle grid, you’ll see a public footpath symbol which takes you into a field. Cross the field, heading for the small gate at the other side. Once you’ve gone through the gate, turn left up the drive-way. After approximately 50 yards up a slight incline, you’ll need to go through a gate on the right hand side of the driveway. Once you are through the gate, turn left and continue walking uphill.

At the top of the hill you are faced with a whole clutch of footpath signs, hop over the stile and turn right, ne-gotiate the seven bar gate, and take the concrete path that is enclosed on both sides by a fence, heading towards some woodland. 550 yards further on, just past the woodlands on the left hand side, you’ll come to a crossroads with four gates to choose from; take the second gate on the left, hop across the stile

�0 www.locallife247.co.uk

to the left hand side of it and follow that path. After a further 250 yards, you’ll go through a gate and cross a little metal bridge across the River Douglas.

Follow the path round to the left and after twenty yards or so you’ll arrive at the Canal. Cross that bridge too, and carry on up the path which bears to the right. You’ll start the long, slow climb up Parbold Hill at this point. Cross the railway bridge and 80 yards further on, you will come to a cross roads. Head straight on, through the wooden gates and into the woods.

Go through the woods, going uphill all the way. When you reach a big mound that’s in the centre of the pathway, bear right right and carry on that path until you go through some metal gates to reach the right hand perimeter of the woods. Turn left at this point at carry on uphill.

Once you get to the top of the field, take the path on the left and follow that path through all the way to some woodland. Eventually you’ll meet the main A5209 op-posite the Wiggin Tree, or Miller & Carter as it is now known. The views on a clear day are magnificent; look out for a stone view map that illustrates the direction of distant landmarks.

If you fancy a brief diversion to take in a famous local landmark, the Parbold Bottle, then turn left and follow the main road in the direction of Parbold for 450 yards. On the left hand side you’ll come across a stile by a public footpath sign. Jump over the stile and follow the path for 150 yards and you’ll come across the Bottle. The Parbold Bottle was originally erected to commemorate the 1832 Reform Bill, using local grit stone and has been recently restored.

Parbold Hill to Rigbye ArmsBack to the top of Parbold Hill, you’ll cross over the busy road near the Miller and Carter Steak House and then turn right, walking in the direc-tion towards the M6 for 175 yards. Just before

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the entrance to Parbold Hall, take the footpath on the left. After 125 yards, there’s an opening on your left. Ignore the opening but hop over the stile 10 yards beyond the opening, continue in the same direction, hugging the right hand perimeter of the field.

At the top right hand corner of the field, jump across another stile, cross a wooden bridge over the Sprod-ley Brook and then bear right. Continue walking up this path along the perimeter of the woods for a further 80 yards or so, and then bear left. In the distance you’ll make out some housing on High Moor Lane, and you’ll notice that the footpath is directly following the direction of some overhead telegraph poles.

You will eventually enter a small copse with a pond on the right hand side and pretty soon after you’ll come to a tarmac road; Broad Hey Lane. Despite the public footpath sign pointing left, turn right at this point and follow Broad Hey Lane up to its junction with High Moor Road. Turn left towards the Rigbye Arms and when you reach the pub, turn left down Stoney Lane.

Rigbye Arms to ParboldYou’ll follow the single lane Stoney Lane for a good half mile, enjoying some fantastic views on the way. Just after you’ve passed the Parbold sign you’ll come to a lay-by on your left. Cross the stile next to the lay-by and take the clearly defined pathway though the meadow heading toward the church spire of Our Lady’s in Parbold.

After 250 yards or so, you’ll cross another stile, and continue down the path eventually meeting up with a small brook. Continue downhill walking parallel to the brook and you’ll then come to a wooden bridge on the left hand side. Take the bridge across the brook and once you get to the other side, turn right.

Follow the perimeter of the wooden area, go round a sharp right hand bend and you’ll see Parbold Douglas School appear on your left. Follow that path for 200 yards and you’ll meet a metal gate, cross the stile and 50 yards further on you’ll see another metal gate, behind which is the t-junction of Lancaster Lane and Tan House Lane. Once you go through the gap, cross Lancaster Lane and head down Tan House Lane.

At the bottom of Tan House Lane, you’ll turn left, pass-ing some shops on the left hand side. Follow that road for 400 yards; go through the level crossing and the car park you started off from is on the right hand side just before the canal bridge.Well done!

Geocachers Alert!There are five geocaches to findon this walk.The references are;GC1QRGE, GC75CA, GC2NP68GC24ZQ3, GC2ZWH6Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment.

�2 Local Gardening Life www.locallife247.co.uk

Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.

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I am rather a fan of Alan Titchmarsh - you know the gardening bloke from the telly. Don’t get me wrong - I don’t fancy him (you’d be surprised how many ladies do though) but I think he talks a lot of sense about gardening and the wider environment, he seems a very nice man and I think his heart is in the right place.

One of his passions is trying to convince the nation that it is simplicity itself to grow your own salads and vegetables, even in the smallest of spaces. I have to

say that speaking from my own experience, he is right and there really is nothing better than eating the fruits of your own labour (excuse the pun). If you’ve not tried it before, have a go at strawberries, cabbages, new potatoes, runner beans, carrots and lettuce. Its fantastic also for getting children involved in the outside and for teaching them about where their food actually comes from and what is good for them to eat. A survey by the Royal Horticultural Society last year identified that two thirds of children under 16 thought that pumpkins grew on trees. I rest my case.

The same survey also revealed that of 82% of children who have access to a garden only 40% use it more than once a week. 30% spend time in it once or twice a month and 20% hardly ever. I not only find these figures shocking, but actually very sad. What a wasted opportunity for getting our children outside having fun, exercising and interacting with nature.

Well having spouted on about the loveliness of Mr T. and seeing as it is my wedding anniversary this month, I had better mention the loveliness of Hubby. Though not a hands on gardener himself, I have to say that he appreciates all the time and effort that goes into making our garden what it is and he loves nothing better than being outside in it. Even if he does sometimes wince when he starts to think about how much money I have spent on the garden over the years. Happy anniversary Hubby!

Author: Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons)Garden Design For All SeasonsTel: 01942 522 405Mob: 07857 008 383www.angiebarker.co.uk

Mr T …

Award Winner!


Beware Council Tax Cheats Council tax chiefs are advising residents not to be taken in by companies that claim they can recoup hundreds of pounds in overpaid council tax. It’s emerged over recent months that some residents are handing over substantial amounts of money in ‘administration fees’ to re-band companies in the hope of being reimbursed any monies owed to them and of having their property re-valued to a lower council tax band.

A Wigan resident recently contacted the council after parting with £165 after she and her husband were approached by a West Yorkshire-based company making exaggerated claims.

Anthony Mohammed, Head of Citizen Support at

Wigan Council says: “We urge residents who are approached to think twice before signing up for this. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The people who have contacted us have all ended up disappointed and out of pocket. If you are entitled to a refund, our system will automatically identify you and we will contact you if you are due a refund.”

If you think your property is in the wrong council tax band, please contact the Valuation Office Agency in Manchester on 03000 503 600.

In the NetsIf you or your child is cricket mad and you want to try out for a local team, the Winstanley Park would like to hear from you. The club has teams at Under 9’s, Under 11’s and Under 13’s level who practice on a Friday night from 6pm at Winstanley Park Cricket Club. All boys and girls welcome. The Seniors train on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Winstanley Park CC from 6:30pm. For further information, please call Tony Dillon on 07791 761715.

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Andy Enright takes a look at Ford’s innovativeB-MAX family carrier.

Yes, the fact that the Ford B-MAX has no B-pillar at the side and a huge aperture may have grabbed the headlines, but there’s so much more to this car than clever doors. The last time Ford introduced a vehicle that made its immediate predecessor (the Ford Fusion)look so instantly antediluvian was when the Sierra was unveiled, instantly rendering the old Cortina to an age of bakelite telephones and valve radios.

The big talking point might well be the doors but under the bonnet is a really intriguing engine. Displacing just 1.0 litre and with three tiny pistons tasked with moving you and yours down the road at a respectable clip, the turbocharged Ecoboost engine punches above its weight, managing a respectable 100bhp. The B-MAX rides on the same chassis as the Fiesta and a good deal of work has gone into making sure that body rigidity is up to par and that side impact protection is also up to Ford’s commendably high standards.

Parking shouldn’t be a problem with an overall length of just 406cm which slots between the 395cm of a five-door Fiesta and the 436cm of a five-door Focus. With all that glass, visibility out of the vehicle is very good too.

Ford claims the B-MAX sports a bold new interpretation of their trapezoidal grille but to this rheumy eye it looks a rather unashamed copy of an Aston Martin item. Still, if one has to crib, Aston Martin isn’t a bad source. Otherwise, the exterior of the B-MAX follows much the same ‘kinetic design’ as contemporary Fords. Certain features catch the eye. The zig-zag slash on the lower rear doors is a departure and the swage line that runs the length of the body is deeply chamfered.

HOW TO B GOOD


The interior offers plenty of room and features 60/40 split rear seats and a folding front passenger seat which together create an extensive load floor, capable of swallowing exceptionally long loads measuring up to 2.35 metres in length. The side access is particularly convenient to load bulky items such as flat-pack furniture or even a bicycle and the door aperture measures a full 150cm in width. The impression of space inside the car is boosted by the availability of a full-length panoramic glass roof.

The B-MAX is designed to appeal to the sort of customer who might well be interested in a C-MAX but lives in an urban area where parking spaces are tight and emissions need to be kept tightly in check. Ford refers to its vehicles in this family as Sports Activity Vehicles and while the B-MAX doesn’t seem immediately sporting, it’ll doubtless appeal to those who may not have kids but need to cart a lot of kit around in order to support sports or gear-intensive hobbies but want the creature comforts of a car rather than the stigma of a light commercial vehicle with windows.

Despite a sales record that’s second to none, building innovation and desirability into small cars hasn’t always been a Ford forte. The Blue Oval has always got the pounds and pence side of the equation squared away and that has driven fleet sales quite agreeably but family buyers looking for something distinctive have often found pickings a bit slim. The B-MAX could well change all of that, with Ford bringing the expertise that developed Galaxy, S-MAX and C-MAX models to bear in a miniaturised and even more intriguingly detailed format.

With its rear sliding doors that reveal no central B-pillars, the Ford B-MAX offers something unique that instantly makes its key rival, the Vauxhall Meriva, appear suddenly off the pace. Couple that with an eager 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine and you have a package that’s just too singular to overlook.

For more details on the B-MAX, visit Gordons of Wallgate in Wigan (01942 823000), Polar Ford of Sherdley Road in St Helens (01744 610600), or Polar Ford of Winwick Road in Warrington (01925 651111)

HOW TO B GOOD


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Local Life JobsDomestic Cleaners Required - All AreasGrowing company requires cleaning staff for immediate start. You must be honest and reliable, and all references supplied will be checked. Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle and good rates of pay for the right candidate. For details call Stephen or Joanne on 0800 043 0722 or 01942 203442.

Distributors Required Local Life requires distributors (aged 13+) to deliver the magazine. We currently have vacancies for distributors in Roby Mill, Highfield and the Mount estate in Orrell. We welcome applicants from all other areas for our waiting list too. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fit, enthusiastic and reliable. Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to [email protected].

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The Useful NumbersMedicalPemberton Surgery 0844 477 9459Pemberton PCT Clinic 01942 775820Concourse Walk-in Centre 01695 588640Bradshaw St Surgery 01942 222336Church St Surgery 01695 622982Hall Green Surgery 01695 622268Holmes House Ave Surgery 01942 483213Hall Green Clinic 01695 622781Orrell Clinic 01942 775750Wigan Infirmary 01942 244000Ormskirk Hospital 01695 577111Moor Rd Dentist 01942 215091Church St Dentist 01695 625565Tower Hill Dentist 01695 622410Hall Green Dentist 01695 622066NHS Direct 0845 4647Emergency Dental Repairs 01695 623334Wigan Chiropractic Clinic 01942 498480Mathew Ryder Clinic 01695 624042NHS Dentist, Up Holland 01695 627617

Police, Councils and CouncillorsGreater Manchester Police 101Local Policing Team 0161 856 7188Wigan Council 01942 244991Wigan Council (Out of Hours) 01942 404040Cllr Clayton (Orrell & Billinge) 07979 734969Cllr Arrowsmith (Orrell and Billinge) 01942 486859Cllr Murphy (Orrell & Billinge) 01942 487688Cllr Barnes (Winstanley) 01942 766454Cllr Morgan (Winstanley) 01942 486880Cllr Winkworth (Winstanley) 01942 766229Skelmersdale Police Station 01695 566134Up Holland Police Team 0845 1253545West Lancs DC 01695 577177Cllr Moran (Up Holland) 01695 550256Cllr Pollock (Up Holland) 01695 632710Cllr Fillis (Up Holland) 0781 138 8153County Cllr Evans (Up Holland) 01695 624683

Other Useful NumbersHope Community Library 01942 777545Lamberhead Green Library 01942 705060Up Holland Library 01695 622368Local Life magazine 01695 627999

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